What is a gummy smile? – Are gummy smiles unattractive

A gummy smile is a condition that results in excessive amounts of visible gum tissue when the person smiles. This condition makes your smile less aesthetic, making the teeth appear smaller due to excessive gingival display. In the information provided below, we will briefly discuss the causes and cure of gummy smile- brought to you by Oris Smiles Dental Clinic Ahmedabad.

Causes of gummy smile – Are gummy smiles unattractive

Change in the eruption position

Due to the change in tooth eruption position, there is an imbalance between the gums and teeth. This causes pressure on the gum tissue, leading to a gummy smile.

Hyperactive lip muscles 

The hyperactive muscles of the upper lips pull the lips, leading to an extensive display of gums. This is more evident when speaking and smiling.  

Excessive gum tissue 

Some people naturally have extra gum tissue over their teeth. It makes the teeth appear shorter.

Vertical excess 

This means that the upper jaw has grown more than usual, leading to a change in the position of the teeth and more gum display.  

Treatment options available- Are gummy smiles unattractive

Various treatment options are available, and the best-suited option can be decided after your comprehensive, detailed examination.

Gum contouring

Gum contouring or gingival reshaping aims to create a more symmetrical, even gum line. Various methods of performing the procedure exist, such as surgical methods or scalpel blades. The latest method is lasers, which are a bloodless way of doing surgeries. 

 In some cases, gum grafting may be performed to augment areas with insufficient gum coverage.

Lip repositioning

It involves the modification of the tissues and muscles around the upper lip to curb its excessive movement. The surgeon will adjust the muscle attachments to achieve the desired lip position.

Gingivectomy

This is a procedure where the surgeon removes excessive gum tissue to expose more teeth. It creates a more balanced gum line. The latest surgical methods, scalpels or dental lasers, can be used.

Crown lengthening

If there is excessive gum tissue and we need to expose the crown portion, a crown lengthening procedure is performed. In this method, the desired appearance is achieved by our surgeons at Oris Smiles Dental Clinic Ahmedabad by adjusting the length of gum tissue. 

Orthognathic surgery

The specific procedures involved depend on the individual’s needs, such as repositioning the upper jaw, reshaping the facial bones, or correcting jaw discrepancies.  

Aftercare of gummy smile treatment – Are gummy smiles unattractive

• The aftercare of gummy smile treatment is critical for healing. The post-care instructions are as follows:
• Provide proper rest to the operated area for 48-72 hrs for optimum healing
• Warm saline rinses after 24hrs promote healing by reducing inflammation and swelling
• Avoid hot and spicy food items for the initial few days
• Take all the medications as prescribed for faster healing
• Use mouthwash as adjunctive care. Do not substitute mouthwash for regular brushing and flossing
• Avoid sugary carbonated drinks as they may interfere with the healing process